Differentiating Between State of the Art and State-of-the-Art Usage

Understanding “State of the Art” vs. “State-of-the-Art”

The words “state of the art” and “state-of-the-art” look alike, but they are used in different ways. Let’s learn more about each one!

History of the Words

The term “state of the art” means the best or most advanced level of something at the time. This term has been used for a long time to talk about the newest, most modern things, like technology or art.

How to Use “State of the Art”

“State of the art” is a noun phrase. It is often used to talk about the best or most modern level of something. Here are some examples:

• The new phone is the state of the art in technology.
• The hospital has equipment that is the state of the art for medical care.
• Her paintings show the state of the art in modern art.
• This kitchen has the state of the art for cooking appliances.
• The sound system is the state of the art in audio quality.

How to Use “State-of-the-Art”

“State-of-the-art” is an adjective. It is used to describe something that is the best or most advanced. Here are some examples:

• We live in a state-of-the-art house.
• He bought a state-of-the-art computer.
• They have a state-of-the-art security system.
• She used a state-of-the-art camera for the film.
• The school has state-of-the-art facilities.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember the difference, think of this: If you want to talk about the idea or level of something, use “state of the art”. If you want to describe something with that quality, use “state-of-the-art”.

Summary

In summary, use “state of the art” when you talk about the best or newest level or example of something. Use “state-of-the-art” to describe a thing that is modern or the newest.